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USDA loans are government-backed mortgages requiring zero down payment. They exist specifically for buyers in eligible rural and suburban areas.
El Cajon sits inland in San Diego County. Parts of the city and surrounding areas may qualify — but eligibility is property-specific, not city-wide.
0%
Down Payment
640 (standard)
Min Credit Score
USDA map required
Property Eligibility
35–45 days
Typical Close Time
Set by household size
Income Limit
USDA Loans in El Cajon
USDA has two hard requirements: the property must be in an eligible area, and your household income must fall under the local limit. Both must pass.
Most lenders want a 640 credit score for automated approval. Below that, manual underwriting kicks in — slower, stricter, and fewer lenders will touch it.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect usda loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in El Cajon.
USDA loans are government-backed mortgages requiring zero down payment. They exist specifically for buyers in eligible rural and suburban areas.
El Cajon sits inland in San Diego County. Parts of the city and surrounding areas may qualify — but eligibility is property-specific, not city-wide.
USDA has two hard requirements: the property must be in an eligible area, and your household income must fall under the local limit. Both must pass.
Not every lender offers USDA loans. Banks often skip them. The better options are typically credit unions, mortgage banks, and brokers with USDA-approved wholesale access.
At SRK CAPITAL, we work with 200+ wholesale lenders. We know which ones actually close USDA loans fast — and which ones stall them for weeks.
The biggest mistake I see: buyers assume all of El Cajon qualifies. It doesn't. Run the USDA property eligibility map before you fall in love with a house.
Income limits trip people up too. USDA counts all household income — not just the borrower's. A working spouse or adult child living at home can push you over the limit.
FHA requires 3.5% down. VA requires zero down — but only for veterans. USDA is the only zero-down option for civilian buyers who qualify on location and income.
USDA mortgage insurance is cheaper than FHA's over the long run. But if the property doesn't qualify, the comparison doesn't matter — FHA or conventional is your path.
El Cajon is a mid-density inland city. Urban core neighborhoods likely won't pass the USDA eligibility map. Fringe areas and nearby unincorporated zones have better odds.
San Diego County income limits vary by household size. As of April 2026, confirm current limits directly — they adjust periodically and affect whether you qualify.
Parts may qualify — it depends on the specific address. Use the USDA property eligibility map before making any offer.
Limits vary by household size and are updated periodically. Check the current USDA income limit tool for San Diego County directly.
USDA loans are for single-family homes in eligible areas. Condos and multi-unit properties are generally not eligible.
USDA loans typically take longer than FHA or conventional — often 35 to 45 days. Plan accordingly when writing your purchase offer.
No. USDA loans are not restricted to first-time buyers. You just need to meet income, credit, and property eligibility requirements.
You won't qualify for USDA. FHA or conventional loans become your next option — a broker can help you find the best fit.